As a journalist for Reuters from 1968-2000, Bob worked in New York, London, Toronto, Tokyo, and Washington, D.C. His assignments covered everything from the Watergate hearings to the wars in Kosovo and Iraq, and he was embedded with U.S. troops in Panama. He covered the presidential campaigns of Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. He attended Fordham Prep (class of 1962) and graduated from New York University (class of 1966) with a degree in economics.
He is survived by his wife, Patty, their children Johanna, Josh (Lisa Batzdorff), Max (Joanna Pauley), and Cornelius (fiancée Sarah Bordeaux). He was Popi/Bob-Bob to grandchildren Karolina, Laszlo, Max, Isaac and Ozzie Kearns.
Robert is also survived by sisters Mary, Joan, and Patricia. He was predeceased by his brothers Jim, John, and Tom. He will be missed by all, including his constant canine companion, Gunnar.
A memorial service for Bob will be held Saturday, January 19 from 2-4 p.m. at Murphy Funeral Home in Falls Church, VA with a gathering to follow at his home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the following organizations:
